3 October 2014
From the High Commissioner’s Desk
Like many people in Solomon Islands, the High Commission team is starting to focus on the forthcoming national election. Democracy is a wonderful gift and those of us lucky enough to live in democratic countries must never take it for granted.
As in many countries, the electoral process in Solomon Islands continues to evolve and improve. I was very impressed with the Biometric Voter Registration process earlier this year. All Solomon Islanders can now have confidence in the integrity of the electoral roll.
This will also be the first election under the new Political Parties Integrity Act and it will be interesting to see how it works in practice for the first time. No doubt there is merit in trying to give voters a greater level of predictability and certainty, which the Act tries to do.
Ultimately it’s up to Solomon Islanders to choose their own MPs and government. My message to all Solomon Islanders is to remember that your vote counts, so use it wisely.
For our part, Australia will be providing some technical support to the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission and we’ll also be among the international observers of the election. But this is very much a Solomon Island-led election, which will be run by Solomon Islanders for Solomon Islanders. The Electoral Commission did a great job with the voter registration process and I’m sure the election will be a success as well.
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I am happy to announce that applications for the High Commission’s Direct Aid Program (DAP) are now open.
DAP is a small grants program designed as ‘partnership funding’ between the High Commission and Solomon Island communities. Projects have assisted communities to improve living standards, deliver training or education and create employment opportunities and community income.
Since 2006, we have been proud to fund small projects in various communities across Solomon Islands, in an effort to reach and assist those in isolated and vulnerable areas. Last year’s projects provided solar lighting, sanitation, water tanks, learning and training centres, clinic repairs, employment opportunities through sewing and piggery projects and helped spread the ‘men against violence against women’ message.
I particularly encourage project applications that will benefit disadvantaged groups such as women, youth, people living with disability and those from isolated communities.
Applicants are able to apply for grants of up to SBD$400,000. Successful project applicants will be required to provide ongoing progress updates and an acquittal report after the completion of the project.
If you have a suitable project and would like to apply please visit our website (www.solomonislands.embassy.gov.au), contact us on 21561 or visit the Australian High Commission on Mud Alley for a copy of the application form.
AHC Second Secretary Ben O'Reilly handing over a DAP weaving and sewing project to Niu Areata Women